Within koo-ee of the Taj Mahal, we must take cycle rickshaws through the Old City of Agra, to visit the workshop of a family who traces 8 generations in the business.
How proud- 8 generations of tradition!
Patrons of their business over the years have numbered emperors, kings and the general “they who can afford”
They specialise in goldwork embroidery, if you can afford it-real gold thread and precious jewels embedded. Each visit is a joy, we arrive after squeezing up a narrow alleyway into a building of many floors, full of men young and old stitching. Even a few very old gentlemen who can’t see well enough to stitch, they still come in for a chat and to lend an opinion on a particularly tricky piece.
The pride and sense of connection Faizan exudes as he introduces the family business and history is amazing. What would it feel like to have an intimate connection with so many layers of your ancestors and know you hold their legacy in your hands and the responsibility of taking it into the future?
This day we were lucky enough to be there as this piece came off the frame after 4 months and 3 men working on it…. A little round of applause was necessary.
We are trated to an introductory workshop in Goldwork, very patiently taught by Faizan and his team.
What will we see next visit? Rajasthan Tour starts in October- join us.
Check our calendar for dates and details.
We have been Chasing the Horizon for years- check our blog for some stories.
Creative Arts Safaris offers craft, textile & travel sketching tours to exotic locations.
We offer fully escorted small group tours and travelling workshops with respected tutors.
On tour we like to get our hands dirty taking workshops, exploring locations and culture. In addition we include lots of local experiences as well as visiting iconic sites.
Crafts, travel sketching and textiles are our passion.
Our friendly groups are inclusive. They are companionable and well organized allowing a relaxed adventure, great for solo travellers.
They include pickup & drop to airport, accommodation, group travel, sightseeing, workshops, and most meals. Almost everything is included EXCEPT the shopping – that is your job. Help the local economy.